Comment on: “Effects of Plyometric Training on Physical Performance: An Umbrella Review”

Response to: Comment on: “Effects of Plyometric Training on Physical Performance: An Umbrella Review”

“…In our umbrella review, we selected 29 studies based on a priori defined inclusion/exclusion criteria (see Kons et al [ 1 ]—Table 1). Ramirez-Campillo et al [ 2 ] questioned why we did not include in our review a list outlining the reasons why 47 studies were excluded. However, this information is clearly listed in Fig.…”

“…Ramirez-Campillo et al [ 2 ] also listed a few meta-analyses excluded from our study that took into account other comparators, such as strength training [ 3 – 5 ]. However, it is important to clarify that comparing plyometric training to other interventions was not part of our study aims, as follows: “(i) to systematically review the available meta-analytical evidence that has examined the effects of plyometric training on physical fitness performance (e.g., sprint time, change of direction, maximal strength, muscle power and explosive strength, vertical or horizontal jump and specifying additional outcomes, such as endurance, high intermittent running performance, kicking performance, balance, and Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test) in different populations”.…”

“…The eight meta-analyses mentioned by Ramirez-Campillo et al [ 2 ] as not being included in our review were published after the conclusion of the systematic search. It is great that the field is moving forward very quickly, and an update to our review might be necessary in the next 3–5 years, hopefully including higher-quality meta-analyses (e.g., including randomized controlled trials [RCTs] only).…”

“…The minor errors and respective corrections are described in the Additional file 1 . Regarding the authors’ [ 2 ] concern that “it is unclear how standardized mean differences [SMDs] were computed from meta-analyses that reported different types of effect sizes (e.g., Hedges’ g; standardized mean differences)”, we understand that different types of SMD calculations used in meta-analysis can introduce bias into the generated effect size [ 6 ]. Unfortunately, the literature is inconsistent regarding the methods used for synthesizing SMDs, and accurately converting effect sizes from the available data is not possible.…”

“…We appreciate the authors’ [ 2 ] contributions to improving our comprehensive review. As the years go by and there is continued growth in the use of plyometric training applications in sport, rehabilitation and across the lifespan, in our opinion, there will always be room for further analyses, particularly considering original studies (e.g., RCTs) and other comprehensive reviews.…”